Reviewing recent posts, I'm lead to wonder if the intelligence which often underlies an interest in space also frequently leads to high levels of self rightiousness and loss of ability to admit error or tolerate dissent. There has been much concern expressed over these faults in Goldin and several leaders of space advocacy groups, but I'm afraid the same traits are frequently displayed here. I'm afraid space advocacy groups are doomed to failure as long as they continue to be as intolerant and dogmatic as our political parties. We've got to stop flame wars over trivial differences of opinion, and avoid demonizing legitimate strong differences of opinion. There are far too few space advocates to warrant attacking the credibility of anyone making reasonable claims. It just undermines the credibility of the whole cause.

I know I'm certainly guilty of the first fault at times, but try to minimize it. The first step in dealing with any problem is to admit it exists. I am not however, saying that no space fans should be challenged. There are those whose claims are so silly that in and of themselves that they jeopordize the credibility of space advocates or at least their particular priority. I think most everyone here can easily distinguish between the types of conflicts I'm talking about.

This board is probably too small to matter, but many of you are involved in larger groups and endevours where more tolerance could really make a difference.

Regards,
Mark